This coming Monday, we celebrate the Feast of Jesus' Presentation at the temple 40 days after his birth. It places before our eyes a special moment in the life of the Holy Family: Mary and Joseph, in accordance with Mosaic law, took the tiny Jesus to the temple of Jerusalem to offer him to the Lord (Lk 2: 22). Simeon and Anna, inspired by God, recognized that Child as the long-awaited Messiah and prophesied about him.
A tradition that occurs on the Feast of the Presentation of Our Lord is the blessing of candles; hence, it is also called Candlemas. We will gather at the beginning of Mass to bless the candles for use in the Cathedral for the following year. We will also be blessing candles for the faithful to take home with them, which can be lighted before a Holy Icon in times of serious sickness or the threat of a storm to implore Divine Protection, as the family is gathered in prayer.
Masses for Monday, February 2, 2026
7:00 am - 8:00 am and 12:05 pm
- Candles will be available to take home following each blessing.